Following the tragic death of an 18-year-old woman near Koyambedu, liquor vending licenses issued to 152 pubs and resto bars across Chennai under the FL-2 and FL-3 categories have come under fresh police scrutiny. The incident occurred after a dispute that began inside a private bar escalated onto the road. The victim, identified as Yancy, was targeted, while her friend Fowsiya, aged 17, who was riding the two-wheeler, sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital.
License Cancellation and Compliance Review
A day after the incident, authorities canceled the FL-2 license of the bar where the dispute originated. Police have initiated an examination of whether other licensed establishments are adhering to the conditions prescribed under the Tamil Nadu Liquor (Licence and Permit) Rules, 1981. Under these rules, FL-2 license holders, which include clubs and non-air-conditioned bars, are permitted to operate from 11 am to 11 pm. FL-3 license holders, encompassing pubs, bars, and establishments attached to hotels, are allowed to function until midnight. Similarly, FL-3A license holders, including bars attached to tourism facilities and certain star hotels, are also permitted to operate until midnight.
Role of Police and Social Activist Concerns
While the prohibition and excise department is responsible for issuing licenses, police play a crucial role in issuing no-objection certificates and monitoring compliance with licensing conditions. Social activists have raised concerns, stating that some bars in areas such as Anna Nagar, Koyambedu, Nungambakkam, Alwarpet, and East Coast Road continue to operate beyond the permitted hours. They have urged police to conduct regular inspections of bars, pubs, and entertainment venues to ensure strict adherence to regulations.
Police sources have indicated that the scrutiny of the 152 FL-2 and FL-3 licenses will focus on compliance with operational norms, safety measures, and licensing conditions. The investigation into the Koyambedu murder case is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover further details.
